Australasian Osseointegration Society 8th Biennial Conference

A unique blend of training and scientific research tailored to the specific needs of the implant dentistry industry is what delegates can expect at the upcoming Australasian Osseointegration Society's (AOS) 8th Biennial Conference in Adelaide from 9-12 November.

In an Australasian first, the reinvigorated conference will incorporate training sessions designed for auxiliary staff, practice managers and laboratory technicians together with a comprehensive scientific program featuring world-class speakers. In effect, this conference is designed as an educational experience for the whole implant team.

Themed Selection: Science or Marketing, the 2011 event will have a clear focus on safe clinical practice and educating all attendees on the benefits and limitations of various clinical techniques.

The four-day conference will feature more than 25 local, national and international experts from across private practice and academic sectors. Highly regarded in the field of implant dentistry, the speakers will deliver comprehensive insights into the most current research, materials, tools and techniques in implant dentistry.

AOS Federal President and Chair of the conference planning committee, Dr Davor Hribar, said they have taken the innovative step of introducing a Speakers Code of Conduct to facilitate the learning process.

"We want delegates to walk away from this conference with up-to-date knowledge, new ideas and strategies that will ultimately lead to improved patient outcomes," Dr Hribar said.

"The best way to improve the outcomes for patients is by ethical and professional information sharing, rather than focussing solely on delivering a marketing message.

"The Code of Conduct ensures speakers adhere to professional and ethical standards through the declaration of any commercial conflicts of interest. Speakers are also asked to disclose commercial endorsements, acknowledge formal affiliations and avoid the promotion of products.

"This will give those attending the conference a genuine opportunity to learn more about the science behind implant dentistry and how it benefits our patients."

The four-day event at the Adelaide Convention Centre will cater for all members of the implant dentistry industry ranging from implant clinicians, laboratory technicians, hygienists, prosthetists, nurses and practice managers.

"We're extremely proud to be able to provide delegates with an integrated approach that includes input from internationally recognised researchers, commercial parties and practitioners," Dr Hribar said.

"This year more than 700 practitioners from Australia and New Zealand will have access to extensive training and scientific research that is relevant to their individual needs.

"Never before has this level of engagement been offered as part of a purpose-built, professional development conference in Australia. It is a progressive step and one that the AOS sees as long overdue.

"We also hope this integrated approach will encourage delegates to assess their practice protocols and base them more on the science and technology, rather than the marketing of a particular product.

"It's important that each person involved in the implant dentistry field understands the limitations of the different systems and materials available to make the right selection for each patient and deliver optimum results now and in the future."

Dr Alan Broughton, South Australian AOS President, and Chair of the conference scientific committee, said the fresh approach to this year's conference has seen a number of new elements added to the program.

"The conference will deliver a series of workshops, keynote presentations and panel debates from a diverse range of internationally renowned experts, coupled with networking and social activities for the delegates," Dr Broughton said.

"This year's scientific program includes a series of pre-conference workshops and master-classes, plus the world's first full training sessions for auxiliary personnel.

"These sessions will build awareness and a greater understanding of the many different implant systems, materials and treatment options available.

"The topics presented will give delegates an opportunity to tap into globally benchmarked skills and knowledge as well as providing access to exciting new innovations and research."

The pre-conference workshops allow delegates to discuss some of the topical issues facing the implant dentistry industry directly with the speakers, while the scientific program will include sessions on complications and risk management with expert advice from insurance advisors.

The laboratory technician program offers updates on current trends and technology plus discussions on proven pathways to constructing successful restorations. Auxiliary staff and practice managers will be offered strategies for building an integrated implant practice and updates on the latest legislation and clinical protocols.

The 2011 AOS conference is a rare opportunity for members of the implant dentistry industry to involve their entire practice in a unique professional development event combined with spectacular social functions.

And as always, the conference dinner to be held on Friday 11 November at the Adelaide Convention Centre, offers attendees the chance to relax, spend time with colleagues and industry associates, and enjoy the very best of South Australian hospitality.

Standard registration for the AOS 2011 conference closes on 30 September 2011.